The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2627

Mara told Balfour things were a mess at home and she didn’t want to drag him back into it. Seemed like there was no reason for him to get involved anymore-it was her family’s dirty laundry, after all.

When he got home, he told his grandparents about Victoria’s suicide, but they were skeptical.

“That girl doesn’t strike me as the type to do something so rash,” Alyssa said, peering over her glasses.

Balfour exhaled heavily. “Maybe it’s the fallout from what happened before. She’s been off-kilter since her dad went into a coma. I guess I’ve got my own part in dragging her

down.”

Deep down, they all knew that from the moment Elton became a vegetable, the Howard family had a hand in shaping the fate of those two girls.

They couldn’t just stand by and watch the rest of Victoria’s life unfold without them.

“When the time’s right, ask her if there’s anything she needs help with,” Dean suggested.

could do to shoulder some

hospital, and they were the first to get the call since

arrived at the

a bit, Elton asked why Victoria hadn’t come along. Mara and Balfour exchanged a look, both at a loss for words. Sensing something was

and revealed the somber truth

safe-no matter what. Already burdened with guilt, Balfour agreed without hesitation. After unloading that last wish, Elton closed his eyes, seemingly at peace,

guilt, stayed by her side, eventually arranging for her to be taken home and sorting out Elton’s final arrangements.

he didn’t expect was Mara’s request to help

1/2

09.30.

soon after.

far? There are plenty of top-notch universities stateside,” Balfour said,

voice was laced with a

to leave this city of sorrow. It’s filled with memories of my sister and dad, and it hurts too much.

I’ll take care of it. I’m just worried it might be a